SUPER DTP postgraduate researchers (PGRs) are encouraged to undertake an internship during the course of their studies to support their personal and career development.
Internships undertaken as part of the SUPER DTP are intended to generate mutual benefit between students and host organisations and to enhance the quality or impact of research.
The SUPER internships guidance document outlines more information for PGRs and host organisations about internship benefits, suggested timings, logistics, and how to find or set up internships.
Another useful resource is a guide to gaining work experience outside academia from Vitae, The researcher on placement.
Experiences
SUPER PGRs share their experiences of undertaking an internship:
- Victoria Gillman: Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 2023.
- Callum Hamilton: Rastech, 2023.
- Sophie Smith: Deutsches Meeremuseum Stralsund, 2023.
- Charlotte Lee: MiAlgae, 2023.
- Izzy Langley: SMRU Consulting, 2023.
- Jack Sheehy: JNCC, 2021.
- Lydia McGill: NatureScot, 2020.
Current Opportunities
Below are internship opportunities or short fixed-term vacancies that the SUPER team have found. If they do not suit, you can source your own opportunities by defining what you are looking for and making approaches to relevant organisations. The list of SUPER DTP associate partners is a useful reference for possible organisations to contact.
Those with Deadlines
Marine Conservation Society Youth Engagement Internship (Scotland)
Over the course of your placement, you’ll get involved in a variety of projects that help connect young people (aged 18–25) across the central belt of Scotland with the ocean. From supporting youth events and a residential, to helping design workshops and contributing to social media content, this is a chance to build your confidence and develop new skills in a supportive environment. This is a full time internship for 12 weeks, paid at National Living Wage and hybrid, ideally with the intern being based in the central belt. Apply ASAP.
The Oyster Restoration Company Internship
The intern will gain practical experience working in a hatchery environment while exploring how native European Flat Oysters contribute to biodiversity, water quality, and the overall health of marine habitats. This hands-on internship is ideal for those looking to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting. This is a full time paid internship for 3 months including travel, accommodation, and subsistence, based in Mellon Charles. Find out more and apply by emailing [email protected] ASAP.
JPI Oceans Internship
This is an opportunity to be immersed into European research and innovation, and science-policy processes. The intern will support the work of the JPI Oceans Secretariat and the main portfolio items may include:
- Co-organise the final event of the JPI Oceans Joint Action Underwater Noise in the Marine Environment and the kick-off meeting of the JPI Oceans Joint Action Changing Marine Lightscapes.
- Support the implementation of the Joint Actions and Strategic Engagements, for instance, by:
- Supporting the further development of our knowledge portal on munitions in the sea;
- Assisting in the creation of national charts of European ocean observing;
- Supporting the organisation of the All-Atlantic Forum 2025, including an intergenerational dialogue.
This is a full time internship for a maximum of 6 months, paid at minimum 2,000€ (~£1,684) a month, and based in Brussels, Germany. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 21 May.
Open Recruitment
Level E Research Internships
Level E was established in 2018 to use artificial intelligence to deliver better outcomes for end investors. They are based in Edinburgh. PhD internships are available throughout the year for machine learning research. These typically last 3-6 months, and can potentially lead to a full time position.
The Technology Partnership Industry Internships
TTP is an independent technology company where scientists, engineers, and designers collaborate to invent and develop new products and technologies. Your internship will see you putting your technical and research skills to work within a commercially focused environment; providing the opportunity to experience how your academic knowledge and skillsets could be utilised within an industry setting. Flexible length of programme, usually between 3 to 6 months. Internships are paid.
People’s Trust for Endangered Species Student Internship
The PTES Wildlife Conservation Internship Programme began in 2001. Since then over 90 young people have benefited, working on practical projects helping hedgehogs, water voles, pine martens, bats, adders, bottlenose dolphins, numerous butterflies and a host of other species. Internships range from full time for 6 months, up to 18 months part-time. A grant of up to £5,000 is available to support living costs whilst the work is undertaken.
The United Nations Internship Programme
The UN offers internships across multiple departments in locations worldwide. Internships last for at least two and can be as long as six months and are unpaid, but some support is available through your TSG. Apply for open positions, or specifically for the UN Environment Programme.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Policy Internships
Successful interns will provide support to OECD Policy Analysts in one of many areas, including climate, energy, and science and technology. Typical tasks include:
- participating in the preparation of studies and documents, carrying out research and reviews of existing materials;
- collecting, organising, and analysing data;
- contributing to the production of documents, working papers and publications resulting from the above activities, including drafting notes and preparing technical annexes, and;
- liaising and building networks with officials in national administrations, researchers, other international organisations and member country Delegations.
The majority of internships are based in Paris, France and are full time for 1 to 6 months. Interns receive a contribution to living expenses of ~700€/mnth.
STEM Ambassador Programme
The STEM Ambassador programme through STEM Learning is flexible, allowing you to volunteer in a way that suits you, it could be online or in person, in schools or in community groups, by supporting lessons or extra-curricular activities and working with young people or their educators. STEM Ambassadors make an impact by:
- Supporting learning – help young people to understand the real world applications of their learning.
- Illuminating careers – showcase different careers, providing information on roles and pathways into industry while raising awareness of the skills that are important in the workplace.
- Raising aspirations – give young people the opportunity to meet a wide range of inspiring role models, encouraging them as they think about their future.